UBZ leader, Soondo, urges Zambians to reject UPND over unmet promises

United for Better Zambia (UBZ) Party president, Hector Soondo, has urged Zambians to vote out the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) in the next elections, accusing the government of failing to deliver on its promises over the past five years.

In a statement on Monday, Soondo said citizens should hold the UPND and President Hakainde Hichilema accountable when they seek re-election, arguing that the administration has not addressed key economic and social challenges.

Soondo claimed the ruling party would likely campaign on unfinished development projects but questioned its overall performance, citing persistent electricity shortages, rising fuel prices and concerns in the health and education sectors.

“Government programmes such as free education have resulted in overcrowded classrooms, while recruitment in the health and education sectors has been supported by external funding rather than domestic resources,” he said.

He also criticised what he described as the government’s heavy reliance on international partners, particularly the United States, warning that such support may not be sustainable.

Soondo referenced remarks attributed to the outgoing U.S. Ambassador, alleging dissatisfaction with governance issues, including corruption.

“Voting for the current administration again would be a risk the country may struggle to manage if external support diminishes,” he said.

The UPND government has previously defended its record, citing ongoing reforms, infrastructure development and efforts to stabilise the economy since taking office in 2021.

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